This comforting ham and potato soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender potatoes, savory ham, and a creamy base that makes every spoonful delightful.
Whenever I make this soup, I can’t help but think how it brings everyone together. A slice of crusty bread on the side is perfect for dipping—trust me, you’ll want to soak up every last drop!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. They hold up well in soup and become creamy when cooked. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower can be used instead!
Ham: Diced cooked ham adds great flavor. You can swap it for leftover turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option by using mushrooms or smoked tofu for a smoky taste.
Onions & Celery: These aromatic veggies enhance the base of your soup. If you’re in a pinch, leeks or shallots can work instead of onions, and bell peppers can replace celery if desired.
Milk or Half-and-Half: For creaminess, either works beautifully. To keep it lighter, you can use whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut milk. Just keep in mind, the flavor might change a bit.
How Do I Make a Roux for This Soup?
The roux is key to achieving that creamy texture. Here’s how you do it:
- Start by melting the butter over medium heat in your pot.
- Add the chopped onions and celery, sauté for about 5 minutes until soft.
- Sprinkle the flour over the veggies, stirring it in well. Cook for 1-2 minutes—this helps eliminate the raw flour taste.
- It should bubble lightly but not brown.
Whisking the broth in slowly will help prevent lumps, so take your time with this step for a smooth soup.
Enjoy your bowl of comfort!
Ham & Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 3 cups chicken broth or stock
- 2 cups milk or half-and-half
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup chopped green beans or peas (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Ham & Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30 minutes to cook. In total, you can expect about 40 minutes from start to finish to enjoy this hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onions and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes or until they become soft and fragrant. This step builds a lovely flavor base for your soup!
2. Prepare the Roux:
Stir in the flour to form a roux. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly until the mixture starts to bubble—that’s when you know it’s ready. This helps give the soup its lovely creamy texture.
3. Add the Broth:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure to eliminate any lumps. This is essential for a smooth soup. Continue to stir until everything is combined.
4. Cook the Potatoes:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat back to a simmer. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
5. Add Ham and Vegetables:
Next, stir in the diced ham and any optional green beans or peas you want to add. Heat everything through, allowing the flavors to meld together nicely.
6. Create the Creamy Base:
Now, stir in the milk or half-and-half. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer but avoid letting it boil, as you want to maintain that creamy texture.
7. Cheesy Goodness:
Finally, add the shredded cheddar cheese into the pot. Stir until it melts and is fully incorporated. This is where the magic happens, adding that delicious cheesy flavor!
8. Season and Serve:
Season the soup with salt and plenty of freshly ground black pepper to taste. When ready to serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each with extra cheddar cheese and chopped chives or green onions. Enjoy!
This rich and creamy Ham & Potato Soup is perfect for any occasion, especially chilly nights when you desire something comforting and warm!
Can I Use Leftover Ham for This Soup?
Absolutely! Leftover ham from a holiday meal or any cooked ham works perfectly. Just make sure it’s diced into small pieces for even distribution in the soup.
How Can I Thicken the Soup If It’s Too Thin?
If your soup ends up too thin, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the simmering soup and allow it to cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding more vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, can enhance the flavor and texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave it until heated through.
